Rapid Response Deployed Following River Closure

HELENA, Mont. – Governor Steve Bullock today announced that he has activated the Department of Labor and Industry’s Rapid Response Unit to provide resources, training and information to Montanans impacted by the recent closure of the Yellowstone River.

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission last week closed the river to all recreational activity between Gardiner and Laurel due to the contagious spread of a microscopic parasite killing thousands of fish.

The Rapid Response Unit, created through the Dislocated Worker Program, will hold a public informational meeting Monday, August 29, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Yellowstone Pioneer Lodge in Livingston. The meeting is free and open to the public.

The Rapid Response training session is a collaborative event with local and state partners, including Job Service Livingston, Montana State University’s Park County Extension Office, the City of Livingston, and Park County.

“Closing the river is an unprecedented step to protect countless jobs that rely on the Yellowstone River,” Bullock said. “I encourage all Montanans whose jobs, businesses or livelihoods are affected by this decision to take advantage of all the resources available as we get a handle on this serious situation.”

During Monday’s meeting, representatives will be available to educate and provide information about retraining options, unemployment insurance and other employment opportunities.

Staff from Fish, Wildlife & Park’s Region 3 office will be available to provide an update on the status of the river.

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